Love Quadrangle

I am beginning to notice a love quadrangle between four of the characters in "Hedda Gabler".  It seems to me that the dominant relationships are concentrated between Hedda, Eilert Lovborg, Thea (Mrs. Elvsted), and Judge Brack.  It appears as if Hedda and Eilert have been in some sort of relationship previously. I believe Hedda, although she may not be completely open with her emotions, either is currently or has at one point been in love with Eilert Lovborg. Hedda's inquisitive nature towards Thea anent Eilert hints at a certain curiosity which insinuates a passionate or even desperate consideration of his current love affairs.  Also, I view the ways in which Hedda treats (or rather mistreats) Thea as representative of her envy. Eilert Lovborg, on the other hand, although he may have been involved with Hedda at one point, is now intimately involved with Thea: his inspiration and the woman with whom he shares his work. Initially Eilert seems to be a changed man and has made a conscientious effort to "[give] up his old habits" (241). However, throughout the continuation of the play, Eilert alternates between his old tendencies and his rehabilitated self. As Eilert spends time with both Hedda and Thea, he correspondingly shifts between his old habits and his improved self. (Unfortunately, this constant interchanging ultimately leads to his death). It is obvious that Thea is passionate about Eilert, his work, and his overall well-being, almost to a point of obsession. Judge Brack obviously yearns for Hedda. This desire is demonstrated throughout his actions and dialogue regarding Hedda. "Unfortunately I was headed quite a different way" (254). When discussing the custom of men walking the women home after a party, Brack regrets not being the one to bring Hedda home. Overall Judge Brack wishes to be "the one cock of the walk", the one man in Hedda's life. Thus, the quadrangle of love is completed.

Initial Reaction

When I first began reading "Hedda Gabler" I was really skeptical about whether or not I was going to enjoy the play.  The plot seemed to move along slowly and although it seems like Ibsen provides a lot of exciting additions and scandals none of them were exactly appealing to me.  Upon further reading, however, I'm finding that I enjoy the book more and I am beginning to become increasingly interested in Hedda's character.  In Act One she was extremely annoying to me though and it was difficult trying to sympathize with her and her situation.  Also, although there isn't much shown regarding Tesman's inner character, I find him to be a carefree man and for these reasons, I admire his persona.  His simplicity and laid-back attitude is best revealed to me in the initial description of his attire (223).  Overall I'm excited to continue reading and witness how the situations unfold.